Stonehill programs aim to prevent sexual violence on campus

Stonehill College is trying to combat sexual violence on its campus through several programs and safety measures, officials said.

Maria Papadopoulos

Stonehill College is trying to combat sexual violence on its campus through several programs and safety measures, officials said.

The school adopted a Rape Aggression Defense program, which teaches women self-defense techniques, about six years ago, said Stonehill Police Detective Lt. David Bamford.

Two classes, taught by Stonehill police, meet over a two-week span every semester, said Bamford. Roughly 30 to 50 students take the class each semester.

The class covers topics ranging from walking alone on campus at night to staying safe in a social setting, particularly when alcohol is available, and emphasizing personal responsibility among students, he said.

“We address concerns that include making sure you stay with a friend, never leaving your drinks unattended,” Bamford said. “We talk about a variety of scenarios that come up.”

Other campus initiatives include a sexual assault and prevention presentation for all incoming freshmen at orientation, officials said.

“We highlight for all entering students the college’s policies for gender-based misconduct and we place a heavy emphasis on the importance of consent,” Stonehill spokesman Martin McGovern said in a statement.

The school also has a “bystander intervention program” that teaches students how to intervene or respond when they see others in dangerous or difficult situations, McGovern said.

There are 23 blue light emergency telephones stationed across campus. The school has surveillance video cameras at “strategic” locations across campus, McGovern said. All student housing uses a card access system.

Students may obtain a ride to their dormitory with a Stonehill police officer through the school’s safety-escort program, he said.

Above all, students are taught to be aware of their surroundings, officials said.

Maria Papadopoulos may be reached at mpapa@enterprisenews.com or follow on Twitter @MariaP_ENT.